Gunners face Cardiff without Clichy

Cardiff were today hoping for another FA Cup day to remember via a re-run of the 1927 final which saw the Bluebirds famously defeat Arsenal 1-0.

The Gunners were without the suspended Gael Clichy, so drafted in the inexperienced Kieron Gibbs in defence.

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger also handed a start to ex-Bluebirds midfielder Aaron Ramsey, as well as opting to begin with the fit-again William Gallas on the bench alongside Emmanuel Adebayor.

The Championship play-off contenders, who lost to Portsmouth in last season’s FA Cup final, were without injured winger Peter Whittingham, allowing Chris Burke – the new signing from Rangers – to make his first start.

The two sides last met in the competition in 2006 when Arsenal won 2-1 at Highbury in the stadium’s final season.

This could also turn out to be Ninian Park’s last FA Cup fixture as City are moving to a new ground next season just over the road.